kayaking

Summer is officially in full swing! The days are long and sunny, leaving many of us itching for a vacation. With growing environmental concerns, eco-friendly travel options are becoming more popular. Traveling sustainably allows you to enjoy all the comforts of a vacation while reducing your environmental impact.

This guide will give you all the green travel tips you need to plan your eco-conscious summer travel!

Eco-Friendly Travel Tips

  1. Take Public Transportation: Opting for public transportation like buses or trains can help reduce the carbon footprint of your travel. Amtrak is a great option, offering scenic routes throughout the United States. When you arrive at your destination, consider taking local public transportation, walking, or biking to get around if possible. If you need to rent a car, renting a hybrid or electric vehicle can be a great option!
  2. Pack Light and Intentionally: Packing light can help reduce the fuel consumption of your car if you are driving to your destination, not to mention it’s always easier to maneuver fewer bags! When choosing what to pack, consider bringing things like reusable water bottles and shopping bags to reduce your use of single-use plastics.
  3. Stay in Eco-Friendly Accommodations: When looking at hotels, consider options that are LEED or Green Key certified. These certifications mean your accommodation is committed to prioritizing energy efficiency and other sustainability practices. Camping is another great eco-friendly option, just remember to follow leave-no-trace principles!
  4. Support Local and Sustainable Businesses: When dining on vacation, consider restaurants that prioritize local ingredients or pay a visit to the farmers market to support local farmers. If you are coming home with souvenirs, skip the airport souvenir shop and opt for unique items from local artisans instead!
  5. Consider Eco-Friendly Destinations: If you don’t have a destination in mind yet, consider looking into places that are committed to sustainability or prioritize ecotourism. Exploring national parks, kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, or backpacking are all great environmentally conscious activities to do during your summer travels.

By choosing eco-friendly travel options, you can ensure a memorable summer trip while exploring scenic new destinations and helping keep the Earth clean for others to enjoy!